In a significant development just prior to Union Minister Amit Shah’s scheduled visit to Bijapur, a total of 103 Maoists have voluntarily surrendered to the Superintendent of Police. This group of insurgents is associated with a cumulative reward of over Rs 1 crore and 6 lakh, a testament to their previous activities. The individuals who chose to lay down their arms indicated that their decision stemmed from the commitment shown by the leadership within the organization, as well as the risks they faced during encounters with security forces.
According to reports from the Digital Desk in Bijapur, the surrender occurred just a day before Amit Shah’s visit to the district headquarters. This incident marks a record number of surrenders among committed Maoist members, as the authorities have placed a total reward of Rs 1,06,30,000 on various known Naxalites. The significant number of surrenders reflects a changing dynamic in the region as more individuals abandon the Maoist ideology.
The surrendered Maoists included individuals holding various ranks, such as DVCM (1), PPCM (4), ACM (4), and several others in leadership positions. Notably, three presidents from different factions within the Maoist structure also surrendered, alongside key military commanders. The authorities have declared rewards ranging from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 8 lakh for these individuals, highlighting their roles within the organization.
Those who decided to return to mainstream society cited a growing disillusionment with the organization, particularly following the departures of senior leaders and the casualties suffered during confrontations with security forces. Many of them expressed a desire for a more stable and peaceful life, which they believe is achievable outside the Maoist framework.
The ongoing rehabilitation initiatives, such as the Poona Marbem program, have begun yielding positive results in the district. The government’s development efforts, including improved transportation, access to electricity, and water supply, have been welcomed by local villagers. This has significantly contributed to the Maoists’ waning influence, as enhanced communication and community policing strategies have fostered better relationships between security forces and the local population.
Since the beginning of the year, a total of 410 Maoists have surrendered, while 421 have been apprehended by law enforcement agencies. Additionally, there have been 137 reported fatalities among Maoist insurgents during separate encounters within the district. From January 1, 2024, to the present, a total of 924 individuals linked to Maoist activities have been arrested, while 599 have surrendered, and 195 have lost their lives in various confrontations with security forces.
The following is a list of some of the dedicated Maoists who surrendered, along with their ranks and the rewards assigned to them: Lachhu Punem, also known as Santosh, who served as the DVCM South Sub Zonal Bureau Communication Commander, has a reward of Rs 8 lakh. Guddu Farsa, alias Vijay, holds the position of PPCM with a reward of Rs 8 lakh. Other notable individuals include Bhima Sodhi, alias Kamal Singh, and Hidme Farsa, both of whom have been assigned rewards of Rs 8 lakh. The list continues with several other members, each with significant rewards highlighting their previous involvement in the organization.
